]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/02/tuf-18-finale-for-skipping-hs-reunion-nate-diaz-gets-30000/feed/3TUF 18 Finale’s Biggest Winners: What’s Next?http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/02/tuf-18-finales-biggest-winners-whats-next/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/02/tuf-18-finales-biggest-winners-whats-next/#commentsMon, 02 Dec 2013 17:06:04 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=86671Every win under the UFC banner is important. However, some victories stand out more than others, especially when you’re an up and coming competitor looking to make an impact in the Octagon. A number of athletes fitting that bill took to the cage on Saturday night at the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale including Chris Holdsworth […]

Tom Niinimaki (21-5-1 / Defeated Rani Yahya via Split Decision)

The featherweight division has a new player in the form of Niinimaki. In addition to beating Yahya, who was on a solid winning streak, the Finnish finisher has won twelve tilts in a row including success against Walel Watson and Chase Beebe. With his triumph over Yahya, Niinimaki made it clear he can compete with the division’s top talent. Since most of the notable 145ers on the UFC’s roster are scheduled for action in the next two months, Niinimaki will need to hold tight until an intriguing possibility appears in early 2014 like the winner of Dennis Siver-Manny Gamburyan, Robbie Peralta-Estevan Payan, or Cole Miller-Sam Sicilia.

Pennington is a bit robotic in the ring, but she packs power and is only 25 years old so she has plenty of time to grow. To build her brand the UFC needs to bring her along slowly. Otherwise, she could have a .500 record or worse before ever making a dent. An opponent like Germaine de Randamie would make sense based on an equivalent lack of experience and the potential to entertain based on her willingness to trade strikes when necessary.

Jessamyn Duke (3-0 / Defeated Peggy Morgan via Unanimous Decision)

Duke looked sharp against Morgan, stringing together combos with ease and controlling action in the Octagon in most instances. She was labeled as one of the most potential-laden contestants on TUF 18 and it’s easy to see why after last weekend’s bout. Rather than face someone with less than five fights, it would be interesting to see Duke draw a slightly more-established adversary along the lines of Jessica Andrade or Jessica Eye.

Chris Holdsworth (5-0 / Defeated Davey Grant via Submission Round 2)

Holdsworth is one of the brightest talents to show up on TUF in awhile. He’s polished his techniques at Team Alpha Male – arguably the best gym in MMA for fighters under 155 pounds – and possesses the kind of weaponry making him a threat to TKO, submit, or outpoint most opponents who cross his path. The UFC would be wise to give him a chance to build his record up and further cement his skills before throwing him to the wolves. As such, look for an adversary like Alex Caceres, Francisco Rivera, or Roland Delorme to emerge as Holdsworth’s next foe.

Julianna Pena (5-2 / Defeated Jessica Rakoczy via TKO Round 1)

Even if the final second had ticked off the first frame and Rakoczy had made it to the next round it was clear Pena had her number. However, while Pena came off as a killer, it’s important to keep in mind how raw the former pro boxer’s grappling skills are in relation to Rakoczy’s ability to deal with the clinch or when put on her backside. Still, Pena was the better Mixed Martial Artist in the match-up and deserves credit for her showing. For some reason, Amanda Nunes jumps out as a perfect fit for Pena’s next fight in terms of delivering a challenge also sure to leave fans pleased. Neither is overly experienced and both are aggressive.

Nate Diaz (17-9 / Defeated Gray Maynard via TKO Round 1)

When Diaz “doesn’t give a f*ck” he sure is fun to watch! Diaz’s beatdown of Maynard was unexpected and immediately reestablished him as a force at 155 pounds after getting stopped by Josh Thomson in his previous pairing. Though his desire to fight for the title is understandable, it’s also asinine considering he’s only two-fights removed from getting tooled by then-champ Benson Henderson and Maynard was coming off a knockout loss. Rather, Diaz should set his sights on someone who is on the cusp of challenging for the belt in hopes of stealing some thunder. Think T.J. Grant, Rafael dos Anjos, or Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Every win under the UFC banner is important. However, some victories stand out more than others, especially when you’re an up and coming competitor looking to make an impact in the Octagon. A number of athletes fitting that bill took to the cage on Saturday night at the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale including Chris Holdsworth and Julianna Pena, the organization’s newest TUF champions. Here’s a look at some of the top performances from the show and what the efforts may mean to the futures of each involved fighter. (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/02/tuf-18-finales-biggest-winners-whats-next/feed/1TUF 18 Champions, Coaches Ronda Rousey/Miesha Tate React to Winshttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-winners-rousey-tate-react-fights-finale/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-winners-rousey-tate-react-fights-finale/#commentsSun, 01 Dec 2013 20:30:40 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=86636After a historic season featuring female fighters alongside male counterparts, two new Ultimate Fighters have been crowned thanks to last night’s TUF 18 Finale. The talent on display was solid to an extent, though only spectacular in regards to the performances of eventual champions Julianna Pena and Chris Holdsworth. Both bantamweights spoke about their scraps […]

Julianna Pena’s attitude going into fights is not for the faint of heart:

“I realize what’s on the line and I take that very carefully. It’s a 50-50 thing when you go in there. I’m going in there to kill them right away. It’s either kill or be killed and I want to kill them. I went in there and tried to be as vicious as possible.”

Pena didn’t appreciate Rousey’s attitude on set:

“The point I was trying to draw there is she has her nose in the air and she acts like she’s better than everyone else. She went on the show saying she’s being Team Real Mean against Team Fake Nice. If you’re so real why didn’t she tell me to my face that I didn’t deserve to breathe the same air as Shayna Baszler, instead of saying it on camera behind my back? It’s her arrogance, it’s the way she holds herself is the point I was trying to make. It’s the way she acts.”

What did TUF 18 mean to Pena?

“I was done with martial arts. I’m a very competitive person and to lose [my fights before TUF] like I did, it broke my heart and I hid under a rock and died. I wasn’t getting any calls, so I knew this was my opportunity. Being on The Ultimate Fighter helped me mentally. Those three wins made my confidence go through the roof.”

Chris Holdsworth reacts to being a TUF champion:

Holdsworth is out to finish opponents:

“I’ve been working a lot with Duane Ludwig. I’ve been working on my standup. I try to finish the fight anywhere it goes. You don’t want the fights to go to the judges’ decision. I’m an aggressive fighter and I want to win.”

Miesha Tate glows about two of her team members emerging with a trophy:

“I just think they have something that can’t be taught. They have heart and passion. Chris is extremely calculated and precise. How do you beat him? Pena, she’s just tenacious. She respects her opponents, but she doesn’t over-respect them. There’s no one that she thinks she’s going to lose to. They’re both going to go far.”

Ronda Rousey’s reaction to reality television and responsibilities as a coach:

“I still haven’t watched any of the episodes. If you want to get the real person via a reality TV show you’re not going to get the right person. For all I know Kim Kardashian could be a rocket scientist. I’m happy that a lot of people know the girls now and they got to fight on the big stage. I don’t have to worry about leaving that Gina Carano void. I feel like I have a couple of heartbroken kids I have to go talk to and I’m stuck here talking to you guys.”

After a historic season featuring female fighters alongside male counterparts, two new Ultimate Fighters have been crowned thanks to last night’s TUF 18 Finale. The talent on display was solid to an extent, though only spectacular in regards to the performances of eventual champions Julianna Pena and Chris Holdsworth. Both bantamweights spoke about their scraps on FOX Sports’ post-event coverage, as did TUF 18 coaches Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-winners-rousey-tate-react-fights-finale/feed/0TUF 18 Finale’s Biggest Losers: What’s Next?http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-finales-biggest-losers-whats-next/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-finales-biggest-losers-whats-next/#commentsSun, 01 Dec 2013 18:27:15 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=86606Another TUF Finale is in the books, giving up-and-coming talent from the recent season an opportunity to shine on the sport’s biggest stage as well as a chance for more established veterans to prove their place on the roster is well-deserved. Ten athletes exited the Octagon last night with heads hung low after suffering a […]

Rani Yahya (19-8 / Lost via Split Decision to Tom Niinimaki)

Yahya didn’t look terrible by any means and nearly beat streaking newcomer Niinimaki as indicated by the scorecards. Still, he lost and ultimately saw a three-fight winning streak laid to waste as a result. Since his stock didn’t take a huge hit, another stand-out 145er coming off a defeat would make a lot of sense for Yahya’s next opponent. Think Clay Guida or Erik Koch.

Frankly, if the UFC didn’t need bantamweight females on the roster to help bolster the division I would be calling for Modafferi to be cut. She is not athletic or explosive enough to fight under the organization’s banner. However, she has a recognizable name based on her time in the game and a fantastic personality to boot, so Modafferi is likely to get one more shot at bringing home a UFC win. Fortunately, she’s decided to dedicate her life to training in Las Vegas instead of living in Japan and approaching preparation in a part-time manner, so the 31-year old could show some serious improvement over the next year. Next up should be another sketchy 135er like Peggy Morgan or Germaine De Randamie so the UFC can trim some fat from the roster.

Peggy Morgan (2-1 / Lost via Unanimous Decision to Jessamyn Duke)

Morgan is still pretty much a “Plain Jane” at this point but it’s understandable considering she only has three professional fights under her belt. Though she lost to Duke, the 6’1” scrapper still has some potential and will hopefully see it fulfilled with the right coaching. She has the size and strength to push most of her peers around and needs to learn how to use her frame in such a way. As mentioned before, a meeting with Roxanne Modafferi could work, as could Germaine De Randamie, Jessica Rakoczy, or pretty much any second-tier 135er.

Davey Grant (8-2 / Lost via Submission to Chris Holdsworth)

It’s interesting to consider Grant has won seven of his eight fights by way of submission but been tapped out in both of his losses. Clearly he has a good ground game but a lot of room for improvement on the mat as well even though BJJ has been the Brit’s bread and butter thus far in his career. On that note, pitting him against a striker is an intriguing prospect since it would give him a chance to shine as well as show off his stand-up (which didn’t look bad per se). Some names worth considering for his next opponent are Johnny Bedford or George Roop based on recent losses and overall ability.

Jessica Rakoczy (1-4 / Lost via TKO to Jessica Pena)

Rakoczy is in a tough position career-wise. On one hand, she’s arguably the best female boxer on the UFC roster and has a 31-3 pro record to back it up. On the other, she’s 36 years old and still a neophyte in MMA. She was essentially rushed into the ring based on her success with the sweet science and age but is playing “catch up” where grappling/submissions are concerned. She looked lost in Julianna Pena’s clinch during their TUF 18 tilt and didn’t know what to do when action hit the mat either. The best thing the UFC could do for Rakoczy is give her another 6-9 months to focus purely on polishing up her skill-set. Regardless, Germaine da Randamie would be an excellent opponent for Rakoczy based on similar status as an athlete who excelled in a different combat sport but is still learning on the job as far as Mixed Martial Arts goes.

Gray Maynard (11-3-1 / Lost via TKO to Nate Diaz)

Maynard’s decline from divisional force to glass-jawed fighter on the cusp of being cut has been surprising. After starting his career with a 10-0-1 mark including wins over some of the top 155ers out there, Maynard has gone 1-3 in his last four fights with all three losses coming as a result of a strike-based stoppage. At 34, he only has a few years left in terms of competing at a high level, so seeing his chin start to deteriorate so rapidly is concerning. He’s too muscular to consider cutting down to 145 pounds and too small to fight as a welterweight, so the future is definitely a bit foggy for “The Bully”. If the UFC wants to play it safe, perhaps Michael Chiesa or Evan Dunham will come into play as a future foe since neither is much of a threat to knock Maynard out. If not, look for K.J. Noons or Jorge Masvidal to emerge as potential opponents.

Another TUF Finale is in the books, giving up-and-coming talent from the recent season an opportunity to shine on the sport’s biggest stage as well as a chance for more established veterans to prove their place on the roster is well-deserved. Ten athletes exited the Octagon last night with heads hung low after suffering a defeat, though not all of the stumbles were devastating or particularly notable for that matter. However, in the case of some of the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale competitors, coming up short will have a definite impact on their immediate futures… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/12/01/tuf-18-finales-biggest-losers-whats-next/feed/0The Ultimate Fighter 18: Maynard Vs Diaz III Live Results And Play By Play (7:30 PM)http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/the-ultimate-fighter-18-maynard-vs-diaz-iii-live-results-and-play-by-play-730-pm/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/the-ultimate-fighter-18-maynard-vs-diaz-iii-live-results-and-play-by-play-730-pm/#commentsSat, 30 Nov 2013 22:30:54 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/the-ultimate-fighter-18-maynard-vs-diaz-iii-live-results-and-play-by-play-730-pm/The 18th season of The Ultimate Fighter is in the books, and it all comes down to one night for the four men and women left standing. Bantamweights Julianna Pena and Jessica Rakoczy and Davey Grant and Chris Holdsworth will all fight for the six figure UFC contract and the title of The Ultimate Fighter. […]

The 18th season of The Ultimate Fighter is in the books, and it all comes down to one night for the four men and women left standing. Bantamweights Julianna Pena and Jessica Rakoczy and Davey Grant and Chris Holdsworth will all fight for the six figure UFC contract and the title of The Ultimate Fighter. In the main event, Former Lightweight number one contenders Gray Maynard and Nate Diaz will face off for the third time. We will be bringing you real time results and play by play of the entire card, and you can watch the first preliminary bout below. For updates, make sure you are refreshing your browser to stay up to speed, and keep it locked to Fighters.com for complete post fight coverage after the card is over.

Sampo takes the center and Benoit lands an uppercut right way. Sampo is coming forward but its Benoit who is landing. Benoit’s uppercut is already paying off. Sampo lands a tough right hand and takes down Benoit. Sampo passes to half guard and begins landing elbows. Benoit is staying tight and staying out of danger but Sampo is still landing. Sampo moves to mount but Benoit reverses the position and is now on top. They stalemate and the ref restarts. Sampo is coming forward but Benoit is landing leg kicks and left hands. Sampo lands a stiff jab and Benoit tags him with a few of his home and a leg kick. Sampo comes forward and lands a two piece and then ends it with a body kick. Sampo lands a straight right and Benoit’s nose is bleeding. Sampo ends the round with a rough 1-2.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Sampo Round 2 Benoit opens up with a hard right hand and Sampo is really working on landing his jab and running kicks off of it. Sampo shoots on Benoit and gets the takedown. Sampo is framing up an armbar and almost has it from top mount. Sampo moves into full mount and again Benoit reverses it. Benoit takes the back of Sampo and is fishing for the choke. Sampo keeps rolling over to stop the offense but Benoit keeps ending up on top. Finally Sampo scrambles and is now in the full guard of Benoit landing ground and pound. Sampo is really working for the americana, but Benoit keeps defending it and Sampo moves to full mount. Sampo takes the back of Benoit in a scramble and he goes right after the choke and gets the tap.

Round 2
Spencer comes out firing and coming forward. Dober throws a high kick that is blocked, and then shoots on a single leg takedown against the fence. Spencer defends and circles out landing a kick. Dober goes 1-2 to the body. Spencer goes heavy to the body as Dober swings for the fences. In an exchange, Spencer lands a mean left elbow that cracks. Spencer clinches and puts Dober on the fence. Dober circles out and looks wobbly. Dober lands a nice jab and Spencer returns fire with a mean hook. Dober ducks under a hook and tries to get the takedown, but again Spencer defends the takedown. Dober lands a few knees and the ref resets the fighters. Spencer defends another takedown and lands a nice high kick as Dober circles out. Dober clinches and puts Spencer on the fence again and Spencer lands a nice elbow that backs him up. Dober lands a nice left hand as Spencer comes in, and then goes to the body. Dober is slowing down and Spencer is seeing the punches coming now. Spencer lands a nice knee as the round ends.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Spencer

Round 3
Spencer comes forward and is landing on Dober. Dober shoots on a takedown and Spencer defends. Break for mouthpiece issue. Spencer lands a nice knee and an uppercut as Dober comes forward. Spencer is picking him apart at this point. Spencer is moving away from the strikes expertly and is countering all the time. They clinch on the fence, and on the exit Spencer lands a nice two piece. Spencer’s left hand is almost always landing. Dober lands a nice body kick, and then they both throw superman punches that miss. Spencer ducks out of the way of a hook, and once again he defends the takedown. Spencer comes forward and lands a 3 piece combination and a solid body kick. Spencer lands a flush knee as Dober shoots. Dober backs up and Spencer lands a rough elbow. Spencer closes in and lands a big flying knee and Dober looks hurt.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Spencer
RM Sports Result: 29-28 Spencer

Sean Spencer def. Drew Dober via Unanimous Decision (30-27×3)

Walter Harris vs. Jared Rosholt
Round 1(ref: Chris Tognoni)
Rosholt takes the center and Harris is coming forward. Rosholt opens up with a low kick as the feeling out process starts. Harris lands a nice jab and Rosholt lands a nice jab and a body kick. Harris lands a nice right hand that backs up Rosholt. Harris comes forward missing with strikes but lands a heavy body kick. Harris lands a right hand that drops Rosholt. Rosholt scrambles right back up and eats a hook, but he is looking somewhat clear. Rosholt lands a nice body kick, and then lands another solid one. Rosholt scrambles in for a clinch but Harris circles out easily. Harris is doing an expert job at keeping Rosholt on the outside. Harris lands a straight left hand but eats a hook for his troubles. Harris lands a solid right hand as the round ends.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Harris

Round 2
Rosholt takes the center and again Harris is coming forward. Rosholt lands a nice hook, and then a body kick. Harris lands a 1-2 on the button. Rosholt lands a big left hand and Harris backs up. Rosholt lands a nice knee and then an uppercut to the body of Harris. Rosholt lands a nice left hand and Harris is looking tired. Rosholt with a nice leg kick and a right hand behind it. Harris is flashing like he is going to kick, but Rosholt isn’t buying it. Rosholt coming forward now and ducks out of the way of a hook from Harris. Rosholt lands a nice body kick. Rosholt lands a nice right hand after Harris lands a nice 1-2. Rosholt lands a nice knee as Harris circles out.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Rosholt

Round 3
Rosholt takes the center and we are back to playing paddy cake with the jab hands. Rosholt lands a glancing leg kick. Rosholt gets a hold of the leg of Harris and gets the takedown and moves into half guard. and starts working the ground and pound. Rosholt lands some nifity elbows on the inside. On the ground its all Rosholt and its like Harris has already given up the idea of getting up. Body body head with the elbows from Rosholt. Rosholt keeps framing up an armlock, but Harris is defending them pretty well.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Rosholt
RM Sports Result: 29-28 Rosholt

Jared Rosholt def. Walter Harris via Unanimous Decision (29-28×3)

Tom Niinimaki vs. Rani Yahya
Round 1(ref: Kim Winslow)
Niinimaki circles and Yahya opens with a leg kick. Yahya comes forward swinging and Niinimaki avoids most of the danger. Niinimaki is coming forward and Yahya shoots and ends up on top. Niinimaki is working a guillotine but Yahya defends and ends up on the bottom after a scramble. Yahya is trying to work on a heel hook, but Niinimaki ends up in half guard again. Yahya uses the heel hook to sweep Niinimaki and end up on top. Again Niinimaki ends up on top after threatening with a guillotine. Yahya scrambles and takes the back of Niinimaki and Niinimaki defends and pops up. Niinimaki taks Yahya down moves into ½ guard. Yahya gives up his back in a scramble, but Yahya defends and gets it back to half guard after eating some punches.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Niinimaki

Round 2
Niinimaki coming forward early and Yahya lands a nice leg kick. Yahya lands a clean right hand and a hook. Yahya clinches and puts Niinimaki on the fence. Niinimaki takes down Yahya again, and Yahya is trying to lace up a guillotine. Yahya almost gets it, but Niinimaki rolls and gets out of danger and ends up in side control. So far Niinimaki isn’t doing much with it besides the occasional short elbows. Winslow stands them up. Niinimaki lands a front kick and shoots for a takedown. Yahya laces up the guillotine choke, and although in danger for a second or two, Niinimaki escapes.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Niinimaki

Round 3
Niinimaki takes the center, and again puts Yahya on his back and moves to side control. Niinimaki isn’t doing much with the takedowns, but he is controlling the positions. Niinimaki lands some nice knees in the clinch. Ref stands them up. Yahya comes forward and lands a nice right hand, and Niinimaki lands a slapping leg kick. Niinimaki shoots again, and this time Niinimaki might be in trouble. Niinimaki escapes but Yahya is on top. Yahya lands some nice short elbows.

Roxanne Modafferi vs. Raquel Pennington
Round 1(ref: Chris Tognoni)
Pennington takes the center and Modafferi lands a low kick. Modafferi is flashing a lot fo strikes but none are landing. So far Pennington isn’t pulling the trigger. Pennington lands a nice low kick but eats a jab for her troubles. Modafferi lands a nice 2 piece combination. Pennington lands a sharp front kick. Modafferi lands a few pitter pater punches and Pennington feeds her a tough right hand. Modafferi is staying active, but her punches aren’t landing. Pennington lands a nice body kick and then a pair of right hands. Pennington lands a nice uppercut as Modafferi forces the clinch. Pennington reverses and puts Modafferi on the cage and Modafferi eats an elbow on the exit. Pennington lands a pair of stiff jabs as Modafferi lands a leg kick. Pennington lands a big right hand as the bell sounds.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Modafferi

Round 2
Modafferi misses big with a spinning back fist, but Pennington lands a nice two piece as Modafferi comes in for a clinch. Modafferi gets a trip but Pennington pops right back up. Modafferi lands an elbow on the break, but Pennington returns fire. Pennington lands a nice combination as Modafferi comes forward. Modafferi stumbles back, but shoots on Pennington. Pennington ends up on top after sprawling. Pennington landing some heavy right hands from the top. Modafferi attempts an armbar, but Pennington defends. Pennington coming forward and Modafferi is on her bike and looks gassed out. Pennington lands a solid left hook that stumbles Modafferi. Modafferi lands a knee, but Pennington returns fire with a left hand as the round ends.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Pennington

Round 3
Modafferi comes out swinging, but nothing is really landing. Modafferi shoots and Pennington defends. Modafferi is more active, but maybe one of five punches or kicks are landing. Pennington is landing the hard strikes. Modafferi clinches on the fence, but Pennington quickly escapes and lands. Pennington lands a solid right hand and Modafferi shoots again. Pennington ends up on top. Two big shots from Pennington to the body of Modafferi. Modafferi is throwing her legs up for submissions, but Pennington is defending them all. Pennington stands up and grabs ahold of Modafferi’s neck and laces up a guillotine choke standing up. Modafferi drops to the ground, but Pennington stands on top and holds it to the end. Saved by the bell

Jessamyn Duke vs. Peggy Morgan
Round 1(ref: Kim Winslow)
Duke takes the center and lands a hook. Morgan comes forward and lands a hook of her own. Duke lands a nice one-two, and then goes body head on the follow up. Morgan clinches and puts Duke on the cage. Morgan attempted a takedown but got her back put on the fence by Duke. Duke jumps guard with an arm in guillotine, and she has Morgan’s arm trapped with the guard. Morgan escapes the guillotine, but Duke is still threatening submissions. Duke has a triangle locked up but its on the wrong side. Duke reverses the triangle, and is now landing elbows as well. Morgan is defending well from the triangle, but she is taking a beating from the bottom as well.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Duke

Round 2
Duke opens up with a pair of hooks and Morgan fires back with her jab. Every single time Duke throws the 2-3 combination its landing. Duke with a nice body kick, and Morgan backs her up to the fence with a clinch. Nothing do though, and Morgan lands a jab on the exit. Duke lands a slick uppercut, and then a left hook right after. Morgan is really pawing her jab out there. Duke is taking advantage by landing that hook. Duke lands a nice overhand elbow as Morgan comes forward. Morgan lands a nice combination, and they exchange jabs. Again with the 2-3 from Duke. A pair of jabs land for Morgan and Duke clinches and lands some knees in the clinch. Duke lands a pair of hooks with a jab right behind. Every single exchange is going in favor of Duke. Duke clinches and gets the takedown at the bell.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Duke

Round 3
Morgan takes the center and is now throwing punches. Duke still countering well though. Nice left hook from Duke, nd follows up with a pair of kicks to the body. Duke backs Morgan up to the fence and lands a 4 piece combination. Morgan clinches and is trying to get the takedown. They go to the ground and Morgan ends up on the back of Duke. Duke rolls over and gets it to half guard, but she is on her back eating punches. Winslow stands up the fight for no reason. Duke is now coming forward and is landing at will

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Duke
RM Sports Result: 30-27 Duke

Jessamyn Duke def. Peggy Morgan via Unanimous Decision (30-27×3)

Davey Grant vs. Chris Holdsworth
Round 1(ref: Yves Lavigne)
Holdsworth takes the center and Grant opens with a leg kick. Holdsworth catches Grant with a hook coming in and clinches and puts him on the fence. Grant spins it around and lands a two piece that wobbles Holdsworth. Holdsworth lands a big right hand that backs up Grant, and he clinches and puts him on the fence. Grant lands a few knees and spins it around. Holdsworth lands a big right hand and they exchange leg kicks. Holdsworth glances Grant’s head with a head kick. Holdsworth clinches and is really working for the takedown but can’t get it. Holdsworth lands a big knee and clinches on the fence. Grant tries for a throw but ends up on the bottom. Holdsworth lands some ground and pound as the round ends.

RM Sports Score: 10-9 Holdsworth

Round 2
Holdsworth comes forward and lands a headkick that Grant catches. Grant goes to the body with a hook. Holdsworth clinches and gets the takedown. In the scramble Holdsworth moves to side mount. Grant’s nose is now leaking. Grant tries to get up, but Holdsworth takes his back. Holdsworth laces up the rear naked choke, and gets the tap. Holdsworth wins The Ultimate Fighter 18 Mens Title.

Julianna Pena vs. Jessica Rakoczy
Round 1(ref: Mario Yamasaki)
Rakoczy takes the center and the feeling out begins. Pena comes forward and clinches and puts Rakoczy on her back. Rakoczy scrambled up but Pena pushes her right back on the fence and is landing knees. Pena gets the trip takedown and goes to work with some ground and pound. Pena stands up and moves to side control. Pena moves to mount and starts landing punches and elbows. Pena is landing big right hands and elbows. Pena pounds out Rakoczy and begins the first female TUF winner.

Nate Diaz vs. Gray Maynard
Round 1(ref: Yves Lavigne)
Diaz circles early and Diaz lands a pair of jabs. Diaz lands a nice hook as he comes in swinging. Maynard gets the takedown and drags him to the fence. Diaz scrambles up and tosses Maynard, but he can’t do much with it. Maynard is already cut. Maynard lands a right hand but Diaz lands a right hand. Diaz wobbles Maynard with a right hand, and is absolutely WRECKING Maynard. Maynard looks out on his feet and his hands aren’t even up anymore. I counted more than 15 unanswered strikes. Maynard didn’t even go down until after Lavigne stopped the bout.

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/the-ultimate-fighter-18-maynard-vs-diaz-iii-live-results-and-play-by-play-730-pm/feed/3TUF 18 Finale: Main Card Predictionshttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/tuf-18-finale-main-card-predictions/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/tuf-18-finale-main-card-predictions/#commentsSat, 30 Nov 2013 16:45:05 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=86522Fans of female fighting are in for a treat tonight thanks to a trio of tilts on tap for the main card of the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale. In addition to Julianna Pena-Jessica Rackoczy battling it out for the right to be named the fairer sex’s first TUF champion, Roxanne Modafferi and Jessamyn Duke are […]

Jessamyn Duke (2-0) vs. Peggy Morgan (2-0)

It should be interesting to see how Duke deals with Morgan’s size. If she’s able to work her takedowns successfully and level the playing field, Duke should have no problem finding an avenue to victory. However, Morgan’s reach and power could also keep Duke at bay. I expect the opening round to be closely contested with Duke eventually wearing Morgan down some, then increasing the intensity of her attack in the second and third rounds to find an opening for a BJJ-based attack. / PREDICTION: Jessamyn Duke def. Peggy Morgan via Submission

Roxanne Modafferi (15-10) vs. Raquel Pennington (3-3)

It would have been understandable if Modafferi had walked away from MMA after her last fight (a 2012 loss). The stumble was her fifth in a row and seemed to indicate the fan-favorite’s time in the sport was at an end. However, Modafferi decided to give her dream one more shot and tried out for TUF 18. She made the cast, and though she lost in a quarterfinal clash she still ended up with a spot on the Finale. She’s also spent the last few months training in Las Vegas instead of splitting time between a job and working out in Japan. Her newfound approach should pay dividends in the Octagon, though Pennington is a tough draw when her head is screwed on straight and she’s got heavy hands. One or two stiff strikes and Modafferi’s evening could be at an end. Still, I see the bright lights getting to “Rocky”, and the more seasoned Modafferi should be able to take advantage with takedown attempts and top control. / PREDICTION: Roxanne Modafferi def. Raquel Pennington via Split Decision

Chris Holdsworth (4-0) vs. Davey Grant (8-1)

This bout would be easier to break down if Grant had actually been forced to fight in the semifinal round, but unfortunately his opponent failed to make weight and the UFC didn’t have a backup plan in place. Both men excel on the ground and should cancel each other out in that regard. As such, Holdsworth’s striking was fairly impressive and he comes from an excellent camp (Team Alpha Male). Expect him to be fully prepared for the task at hand and look sharp en route to victory by picking his spots while standing, scoring plenty of hard-fought takedowns, and raining down punches from top position. / PREDICTION: Chris Holdsworth def. Davey Grant via Unanimous Decision

Julianna Pena (4-2) vs. Jessica Rakoczy (1-3)

Rakoczy probably has the best boxing on the UFC’s roster when it comes to female fighters. Her footwork, combinations, and openness to constantly pawing at an opponent’s face with her jab are all excellent aspects of her attack, and she certainly showed them off during her stint on the show. While Pena is explosive, her skills are still raw and she tends to react to things in the ring rather than use any real strategy. If she listens to her corner and focuses mainly on clinch-work and takedowns, Pena should have no problem winning the Ultimate Fighter 18 trophy via submission or decision. However, if she throws caution to the wind and decides to test her striking, expect Rakoczy to pick her apart with ease. I’m leaning towards the first situation playing out since Rakoczy’s primary source of dealing damage is obvious but it’s hard to know what to expect from the occasionally wild “The Venezuelan Vixen”. / PREDICTION: Julianna Pena def. Jessica Rakoczy via Submission

Gray Maynard (11-2-1) vs. Nate Diaz (16-9)

Unless it’s all been one great act, Diaz doesn’t seem to be very motivated when it comes to mixing it up in the Octagon. He made multiple comments leading up to tonight’s card indicating such, stating he doesn’t want to fight at 155 pounds anymore unless he gets a hike up in pay and even acting as though he might withdraw from the bout to attend his high school reunion. His attitude isn’t surprising either considering his primary influence in the sport – brother Nick Diaz – has retired on the spot twice after finding fault with the scoring of his last two scraps. Look for Diaz to phone his performance in, giving Maynard ample opportunity to secure takedown attempts and blanket the controversial Californian en route to a less-than aesthetically pleasing decision victory. For those fans hoping to see something more exciting, sorry, but he definitely won’t be looking to stand with Diaz after getting knocked out by T.J. Grant in his previous pairing. / PREDICTION: Gray Maynard def. Nate Diaz via Unanimous Decision

Fans of female fighting are in for a treat tonight thanks to a trio of tilts on tap for the main card of the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale. In addition to Julianna Pena-Jessica Rackoczy battling it out for the right to be named the fairer sex’s first TUF champion, Roxanne Modafferi and Jessamyn Duke are scheduled for showdowns with peers from this past season’s cast. Additionally, Chris Holdsworth and Davey Grant are set to lock horns for the male bracket’s trophy, while Ultimate Fighter alums Gray Maynard and Nate Diaz are scheduled to headline the spectacle. Here’s a look at how those fights may unfold… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/30/tuf-18-finale-main-card-predictions/feed/0The Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale Official Weigh-In Results (Video At 7 PM ET)http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/the-ultimate-fighter-18-finale-official-weigh-in-results-video-at-7-pm-et/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/the-ultimate-fighter-18-finale-official-weigh-in-results-video-at-7-pm-et/#commentsFri, 29 Nov 2013 17:12:26 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/the-ultimate-fighter-18-finale-official-weigh-in-results-video-at-7-pm-et/Two new Ultimate Fighters will be crowned Saturday night at The Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale, one of which will be historic, as the first female tournament final takes place. Official weigh-ins for the card went down earlier today, and complete results can be found below. In the main event, Nate Diaz and Gray Maynard – […]

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/the-ultimate-fighter-18-finale-official-weigh-in-results-video-at-7-pm-et/feed/2TUF 18 Finale: Undercard Predictionshttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/tuf-18-finale-undercard-predictions/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/29/tuf-18-finale-undercard-predictions/#commentsFri, 29 Nov 2013 16:52:23 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/?p=86467If you’re tuning in tomorrow night for preliminary portion of the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale and are looking for star-power, expect to be disappointed. However, if you’re hoping for little more than a few entertaining match-ups the forecast is much brighter. Here’s a look at how the five undercard efforts may unfold based on skill-set, […]

Ryan Benoit (7-2) vs. Joshua Sampo (10-2)

The UFC is actively trying to bolster the flyweight division and have achieved their goal in signing Benoit/Sampo. Both have shown solid ability on the regional scene and are still in their 20s so there’s room for growth. Sampo is a grappler by trade, earning five submission wins in his career, while Benoit’s power has resulted in six TKO victories. In my estimation, Sampo should have a slight edge based on the fact he’s won his last four fights including contests against Alexis Vila and Antonio Banuelos (both respectable veterans). / PREDICTION: Joshua Sampo def. Ryan Benoit via Unanimous Decision

Drew Dober (13-4) vs. Sean Spencer (10-2)

Grappling fanatics should enjoy this showdown. Both men are good on the mat, though Dober’s submission game is superior to Spencer’s. He’s also been hot as of late with seven wins in his last eight outings. Expect him to add a ninth tap-out to his record after eventually moving his way into position for his technique of choice, the Rear-Naked Choke. / PREDICTION: Drew Dober def. Sean Spencer via Submission

Jared Rosholt (8-1) vs. Walter Harris (4-1)

Knowledgeable folks almost certainly recognize Rosholt’s last name based on his wrestling career and relation to fellow fighter Jake Rosholt, his big brother. The little Rosholt is actually the bigger one as chance would have it, clocking in as a heavyweight. Harris is explosive and has earned all of his triumphs by scoring a TKO less than two minutes into the match-up. If Rosholt can avoid Harris' initial flurry and put him on the ground to sap him of energy, expect a submission or decision to go the Texan’s way. Otherwise, he’ll be taking an unplanned nap after eating a stiff shot early on in the tilt. / PREDICTION: Jared Rosholt def. Walter Harris via Unanimous Decision

Rani Yahya (19-7) vs. Tom Niinimaki (20-5-1)

Finally, a fighter most of you have heard of! Yahya has recovered brilliantly from a rough patch in his career seeing defeats in three of four fights, emerging triumphant in a trio of consecutive clashes. Picking up #4 won’t be easy though even if Niinimaki is a newcomer. The Finnish finisher has won eleven straight scraps including recent success against Chase Beebe and Walel Watson. Still, while good, it’s tough to pick him when thinking about Yahya’s BJJ excellence and overall toughness. / PREDICTION: Rani Yahya def. Tom Niinimaki via Split Decision

Maximo Blanco (9-4-1) vs. Akira Corassani (11-3)

Granted, this is arguably the least anticipated headliner to any undercard of 2013. Still, don’t blame Corassani or Blanco for the UFC’s questionable booking, because there’s no question their clash is going to be worth watching. Both are aggressive competitors with certain advantages over the other. Blanco is a bit more powerful, while Corassani often sets up his grappling with his stand-up. Based on Blanco’s athleticism and performance against superiorly-skilled adversaries he should end up with the nod, though Corassani certainly has the ability to pull off an upset. / PREDICTION: Maximo Blanco def. Akira Corassani via Unanimous Decision

If you’re tuning in tomorrow night for preliminary portion of the Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale and are looking for star-power, expect to be disappointed. However, if you’re hoping for little more than a few entertaining match-ups the forecast is much brighter. Here’s a look at how the five undercard efforts may unfold based on skill-set, past performance, and a variety of other factors… (Photos by USA Today Sports Images)

Set for Las Vegas, the five-fight main card airs on FOX Sports 1 at 10 p.m. ET after a four-bout prelim, also airing on FS1.

Pena and Rakoczy square off in the women’s bantamweight final, while Davey Grant takes on Chris Holdsworth in the men’s tourney finals.

The main event features Nate Diaz battling Gray Maynard for a third time, while other main card bouts include TUF 18 competitors Jessamyn Duke meeting Peggy Morgan and Roxanne Modafferi facing Raquel Pennington.

]]>http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/28/tuf-18-finale-fight-card-set-with-female-tourney-final/feed/0TUF 18 Finale: Female Fighters Will Receive Spots On Cardhttp://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/26/tuf-18-finale-female-fighters-will-receive-spots-on-card/
http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/26/tuf-18-finale-female-fighters-will-receive-spots-on-card/#commentsTue, 26 Nov 2013 17:24:36 +0000http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2013/11/26/tuf-18-finale-female-fighters-will-receive-spots-on-card/All eight fighters who made up the first female season of The Ultimate Fighter will receive bouts inside the Octagon – just not all this Saturday at The Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale. Shayna Baszler and Sarah Moras both suffered injuries and will not be able to compete this weekend. The finals, consisting of Julianna Pena […]